NY Proposal: Use Casino Money to Fund NY Campaigns

A proposal expected in the New York Legislature aimed at limiting the influence of special interest money in politics would use some of the revenue anticipated from the expansion of casinos in New York to finance campaigns.

The idea comes from good-government advocate Bill Samuels and Democratic state Sen. Liz Krueger. Supporters say it would level the playing field for candidates and create more competitive elections while opening politics to more people without depending on large contributions from special interests.

The measure, expected to be introduced, wouldn't use tax dollars. Senate Republicans oppose using taxes for campaigns, They say the money should be used for schools and for tax relief.

The so-called "grand bargain" would seek to tap into a likely deluge of campaign contributions from supporters and opponents of the proposal to allow casinos on non-Indian land in New York.